FOR IMMEDIATE USE … Jan/Feb 2023
WAITANGI DAY OPEN DAY-MONDAY, 6 th February 10AM – 4PM
Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be open for
public inspection again on Waitangi Day, MONDAY, February 6th.
The World War Two coastal battery first opened to the public in
1989, and will be accessible between 10am and 4pm.
On Waitangi Day people are invited to self-guide themselves
through the tunnels and gun emplacements. The walk usually takes
about one hour and there may also be a number of guided tours
during the day. Bring a torch with you for some fun!
Visitors will be able to explore the 620 metres of underground
tunnels with a free map and history pamphlet. They will see shell
stores, plotting rooms and the huge gun pit where Gun Number 1
used to stand, as well as a replica of the 10 metre-long gun barrel.
Also on show will be historic photos, and an assortment of military
weapons. A DVD of how a 9.2-inch gun operates will be showing as
well. The World War Two Fortress is the only one of its type in New
Zealand available to the public on five Open Days a year.
Wrights Hill Fortress was built from 1942 to protect Wellington from
Japanese bombardment. In the early 1960’s, the guns were cut up
for scrap and sold, ironically, to the Japanese.
Admission is $20 for a family of two adults and three children under
12, or $10 per adult and $5 per child. (CASH ONLY please-NO
EFTPOS).
Access is via Karori Road, Campbell Street, and Wrights
Hill Road. All proceeds go to the continuing restoration of the
Fortress. There is limited car parking at the summit of the Hill.
Visitors to the Fortress in Wrights Hill Reserve can also enjoy bush
walks, picnic sites and panoramic views from the top of the hill.
There will also be a BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks on sale.
Strong footwear please and no jandals!